As the founder of HadIt.com Veterans since 1997, I’ve been navigating VA claims since 1991. Let me tell you, understanding VA benefits can feel like reading a map in a foreign language during a thunderstorm. Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) is one of those benefits many veterans don’t fully grasp – and that means leaving hard-earned money on the table.
What Is SMC and Why Should You Care?
Special Monthly Compensation isn’t just fancy disability pay. It’s additional tax-free money for veterans with severe disabilities needing extra support.
While standard disability ratings provide basic compensation, SMC recognizes that some injuries and conditions require more care, equipment, and resources.
Do You Qualify? The Real Talk
You might qualify for SMC if:
- You need help with daily activities (Aid and Attendance)
- You’re essentially homebound due to service-connected disabilities
- You’ve lost use of specific body parts or functions
- You’re dealing with blindness, deafness, or other sensory losses
- You have certain combinations of severe disabilities
Game-Changer: The Barry v. McDonough Decision
In January 2023, this Federal Circuit Court decision revolutionized how the VA must consider multiple disabilities for SMC rates.
What it means for you: Before, multiple severe disabilities were often lumped under one SMC rating. Now, each qualifying disability must be considered separately, potentially qualifying veterans for higher SMC levels.
Real-World Impact: What This Could Mean For You
Combat Veterans with Multiple Injuries
Consider an Afghanistan or Iraq veteran with:
- Loss of use of a leg below the knee
- Blindness in one eye with severe impairment in the other
- TBI causing cognitive impairments requiring assistance
Pre-Barry: SMC-L (around $4,000 monthly)
Post-Barry: Potentially SMC-R1 (nearly $9,000 monthly)
That’s not just a policy change – it’s the difference between struggling and maintaining independence.
Vietnam-Era Veterans with Progressive Conditions
For Vietnam veterans dealing with Agent Orange effects:
- Diabetes resulting in loss of use of both feet
- Ischemic heart disease requiring regular aid
- Parkinson’s symptoms affecting upper extremities
Pre-Barry: SMC-L plus some additional compensation
Post-Barry: Potentially SMC-O, doubling monthly compensation
MST Survivors with Complex Trauma
For female veterans with service-connected conditions:
- MST-related PTSD requiring regular therapy and assistance
- Back or joint injuries causing mobility limitations
- Severe migraines affecting independent functioning
Pre-Barry: SMC-S (housebound) at around $3,700 monthly
Post-Barry: Potentially SMC-M, increasing to approximately $5,500 monthly
What This Means For Your Journey
If you have multiple service-connected disabilities, especially combinations affecting different body systems or requiring regular assistance, Barry v. McDonough could be your pathway to full compensation.
Important: The VA won’t automatically review your case. You must advocate for yourself. That’s why our veteran community at HadIt.com exists – to share critical updates that transform benefits and lives.
Getting SMC: A Battle Plan From Someone Who’s Been There
Step 1: Gather Your Evidence
Collect:
- All medical records related to your disabilities
- Treatment notes from VA and civilian doctors
- Hospital records
- Medication lists
- Daily care requirements
Pro Tip: Document how disabilities affect your daily life. A journal tracking assistance needs can be powerful evidence.
Step 2: Complete VA Form 21-2680 Thoroughly
This form is crucial for many SMC claims. Have your doctor complete it in detail. Every box matters.
Step 3: Build Your Case With Supporting Evidence
- Get statements from caregivers or family members
- Include statements from medical professionals
- Add buddy statements describing condition changes
- Include photos of adaptive equipment
Step 4: File Your Claim Strategically
Options:
- Online through VA.gov
- By mail to your VA Regional Office
- In-person with a Veteran Service Officer (recommended)
The Real Deal: After 26+ years helping veterans, I strongly advise working with a VSO or accredited representative.
Step 5: Be Ready for VA Examinations
- Be honest about your worst days
- Don’t downplay symptoms
- Bring someone to help describe your limitations
- Don’t miss this appointment
Step 6: The Waiting Game and Follow-Up
While waiting:
- Check claim status on VA.gov
- Document any condition changes
- Stay in touch with your representative
- Connect with other veterans (HadIt.com community is here)
The Veteran-to-Veteran Truth About SMC Claims
- Persistence matters. Many succeed on appeal.
- Documentation is your strongest weapon.
- You deserve qualified help. Don’t go it alone.
- The system is complex for a reason. Don’t let it discourage you.
Remember: Your journey is valid. Your struggles are real. Your resilience is powerful.
Join our community at Community.HadIt.com, where veterans help veterans navigate the path to earned benefits.
Barry v. McDonough has not yet been incorporated into VA M-21 Adjudication Manual. However it is considered a precedential decision. BVA is deciding cases based on Barry even if VA denies appeal it.
